My name is Elaine Godley.   At the age of 52, in April 2009,   I was diagnosed with high grade DCIS which led to a TRAM FLAP procedure undertaken on 8 July 2009.

DCIS is an early form of breast cancer which is completely treatable if detected early.  TRAMFLAP is the name for a combined operation removing the breast with reconstruction at the same time.

I hope this site, when fully developed, will help other ladies, their family and friends to deal with this major disruption to life in a positive way.  I am also hoping that writing about my experience will help the medical profession to provide support to their patients and also to pick up some small tips on how to make the journey more bearable and less worrysome for patients.

Before I underwent my first surgery (wire guided wide excision) on 8 May 2009 following a series of mammograms, ultrasound and bilateral biopsy, I searched the internet for some practical advice on how I could help myself prepare for what I was about to go through.   My thinking was that the medical staff are kindly doing everything in their power to help me, so what exactly could I do to help myself?

Surprisingly, I found nothing of practical use from a patient perspective.   There is some information about the medical procedure itself, and of course some great support information from the major cancer charity web sites. However, what I wanted was more on a basic practical, lifestyle, day to day ways in which I could give myself the best chance of recovery.

The same thing happened when I received the shocking news at the end of May that I needed a full right mastectomy. I could find nothing about practical aspects to help me to prepare for and get through the strangely named TRAM FLAP procedure which takes 8 hours and has a recovery time of around 3 months - major surgery indeed.

Since undergoing my surgery, two consultants have put graphic pictures on the internet showing the surgical procedure - the sight is shocking but fascinating. The medical advances we enjoy today never cease to amaze me - thank heaven I was able to take advantage of the latest advances in treating breast cancer.

There have been many life changing benefits to me from undergoing this radical surgery.  For a start I have lost nearly 4 stone in 16 months!  My experience and knowledge learned throughout my journey has enabled me to change my business direction towards preventative healthcare, helping many people to live healthier and more rewarding lives. See www.blackcatprofiling.co.uk

I am in the process of creating this site and also writing a book about my personal experiences whilst undergoing this radical procedure. A tips booklet is already available via my shop. Other products are being developed. 

Please feel free to email me your suggestions on anything you would like included as the site evolves

at info@tramflap.co.uk or telephone 0845 121 4742